Financial difficulty due to Coronavirus
Many people in East Dunbartonshire who may be experiencing financial difficulty as a result of the Coronavirus outbreak. We can offer help on what to do next.
Research was recently commissioned by the Scottish Government in partnership with YouGov. Nearly a third of people across Scotland have already felt the financial strain of the outbreak. Many are worried about its impact on their finances
42% of people in the West of Scotland report being concerned about the impact of Coronavirus on their household finances. 53% of parents in Scotland with 12-16 year olds say the pandemic is already having a negative effect on their finances.
The findings also reveal that 38% of 18-24 year olds are worried about the pandemic having a negative impact on household finances. This figure rises to 41% among part-time workers.
Awareness-raising in East Dunbartonshire
These findings follow the launch of a new campaign by the Scottish Government and the Citizens Advice network. It aims to raise awareness of the financial support available to people in East Dunbartonshire experiencing financial difficulty.
The campaign provides information and advice on many issues:
- rent and mortgage payments
- energy bills
- council tax
- other benefits
People can access this advice online, by phone or by contacting their local Citizens Advice Bureau.
Advice from Aileen Campbell MSP
Cabinet Secretary for Communities and Local Government Aileen Campbell said:
“This is a difficult and worrying time for everyone. Today’s findings further show the need to provide people across Scotland with the correct support, guidance and information to help them with their finances.
“To support people and communities affected by Covid-19 we recently announced a £350 million package of funding. This makes sure local authorities, community groups and the third sector are able to help people who need it. It increased investment for both the Scottish Welfare Fund and Council Tax Reduction Scheme.
“However, we need to make sure that people know of all the support that they can get. This includes benefits delivered by DWP. I would encourage everyone across Scotland who is facing financial difficulty to look into what help is available to them.
“That’s why we’ve been working with the Citizens Advice network in Scotland. We’ve created this central source of information. It offers guidance on benefits, right through to what you can do if you are worried about paying your mortgage or rent.”
Advice from Catherine Bradley, East Dunbartonshire Citizen’s Advice Bureau
Catherine Bradley local CAB Manager said:
“The Covid-19 outbreak has presented real challenges for people in East Dunbartonshire. The Citizens Advice Bureaux is still here to serve the community and ensure people get the advice they need.
“Our services have transitioned during the outbreak. People are still getting advice or assistance to complete forms over the phone by email or online web chat.
“This pandemic is an anxious time for everyone. While Covid-19 is a public health emergency, it’s a huge economic challenge too. People have been coming to us with concerns about employment, housing and social security during this period.
“Our message to people who are struggling is simple. The local Citizens Advice Bureaux is here to help.”
Advice from local councillors
Joint Council Leaders Councillor Andrew Polson and Councillor Vaughan Moody agree that people locally should seek help if needed.
Councillor Polson said: “Every single one of us is impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. I would urge anyone who is struggling financially to contact Citizen’s Advice. Here you can find out what support is available.”
Councillor Moody added: “The challenges of Covid-19 are far-reaching and constant. The message here is that help is available through CAB. We’d encourage you to call them for support.”
Are you experiencing financial difficulty by the coronavirus outbreak? We offer free, confidential, financial support. You can contact us on 0141 775 3220. You can also visit edcab.org or call Scotland’s Citizens Advice Helpline on 0800 028 1456
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